Best hotels in New Orleans

New Orleans HotelsSimmering with the richest of cultural flavors, New Orleans is a city of ornate European architecture, captivating history, and a joie de vivre that moves to its own steady beat. The birthplace of jazz, the wrought-ironed French Quarter still echoes with the haunting sound of the past, while the city’s bawdy brand of nightlife is legendary. When the Louisiana sun still shines, relaxed pleasures take the lead. Grab an al fresco bite, rifle through a quirky boutique, or just watch the world go by with the locals.Things to seeIn the heart of the French Quarter you’ll find the manicured greenery of Jackson Square. Home to the Louisiana State Museum, the three-spired St. Louis Cathedral, and the Cabildo, the square is the historical centerpiece of New Orleans. Spanning 6 blocks jam-packed with all kinds of everything, the French Market is a sensory overload. Here you can sample Farmer’s Market fare and rifle through troves of treasures and trinkets, while jazz bands play to the beat of the bustle. There’s no better place to let your hair down than Bourbon Street. Awash with illuminated French Quarter quirk and alive with boisterous nighttime revelry, bars thump and jazz clubs blare from beneath iron balconies. If you’re feeling lucky, hop on a winning streak at Harrah’s Casino. With slot machines and table favorites, glitz, glam and cocktails flow all night long. For entertainment on the largest of scales, the gargantuan Mercedes-Benz Superdome hosts everything from basketball to motocross.Hotels in
New OrleansFrom historical boutique accommodation complete with street-view balconies and floral courtyards, to towering contemporary digs branded with the most prestigious of names - the hotels in New Orleans come as eclectic as everything else in the city. Those in pursuit of the finer things will find plenty of chandelier-lit luxury, with outdoor pools, fitness facilities, and business centers if you’re here for work and not pleasure. The mid-range is made up of chain hotels, independent establishments and suburban guest houses, most coming well equipped with all the standard creature comforts. Cheap hotels in New Orleans are certainly in existence, along with thrifty B&Bs.Where to stayA hotel in New Orleans’ charismatic French Quarter puts you at the very soul of the city, never mind the heart. From the tangled wrought iron work of the distinctive architecture, to the treasures of the French Market and the tranquility of Jackson Square – it’s quintessential New Orleans. The Warehouse District’s reputation as the city’s arts hub has given it the nickname ‘The SoHo of the South’. Simmering with culture, you’ll find over 25 galleries, many of which are located on Julia Street. Pretty and peaceful, the Garden District is swathed in green spaces and adorned with Greek Revival and Italianate buildings – here, it’s all about taking it easy.How to get to New OrleansServing destinations all around the world, Louis Armstrong International Airport is the primary gateway into the city. Just 15 miles from the French Quarter, taxis usually charge a flat fee of around $33, though many of the larger hotels provide complimentary shuttle transfers. Alternatively, buses run from the airport, down the Airline Highway, and stop in the Central Business District. Journeys take around 45 minutes, and the French Quarter is just a short cab ride or walk from there. For those travelling in by train, the Amtrak service makes stops at the Union Passenger Terminal, just on the edge of the Business District.